The management of Abuja Steel Company has dismissed allegations connecting the organization to the acquisition and smelting of stolen manhole covers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the company’s spokesperson, Chethan Kumar, Abuja Steel Mills Ltd described the claims as baseless and misleading, firmly denying any involvement in such activities.
The denial follows the arrest of 50 suspects by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command on Monday.
The suspects were allegedly involved in the theft of streetlights, manhole covers, and other public infrastructure in the capital city. Reports suggested that Abuja Steel Company was implicated as a buyer of the stolen items.
Providing clarity, the company emphasized that it operates on a large-scale industrial model and does not engage in small-scale transactions with individuals or unauthorized agents.
“The allegations are entirely unfounded and contradict our core values and operational principles,” Kumar said.
The statement highlighted Abuja Steel Company’s commitment to ethical practices and adherence to industry regulations. It further noted that the company, which is part of Nigeria’s largest steel-producing group, operates an integrated iron-ore mining and processing facility in Kaduna State and is transitioning from using scrap metals to direct reduced iron-ore from its sister company, African Natural Resources and Mines Limited.
A thorough investigation has been launched to protect the company’s reputation and ensure accountability. The company pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the theft and vandalism.
Abuja Steel Company urged the public and its customers to disregard the accusations, describing them as attempts to tarnish its reputation. The company reaffirmed its stance against vandalism and its commitment to contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth while maintaining public trust.
“Our company remains steadfast in promoting responsible industrial practices and ensuring the safety of public infrastructure,” the statement concluded.
